Shag Point

Gazing out at the dramatic coastal landscape of Shag Point, can you imagine the ancient history etched into these rocks? Shag Point, also known as Matakaea, whispers stories of early Māori settlement, bustling coal mines, and abundant marine life. This hidden gem, just a short drive from Moeraki, offers a captivating blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue. Shag Point invites you to explore its unique geology. Fossils lie embedded in the soft sandstone, remnants of a time long past. Imagine a seven-metre marine reptile, a plesiosaur, once swimming in these waters. Its fossilized remains, discovered here at Shag Point, now reside in the University of Otago’s collection. The area’s rich Māori history stretches back to the 15th century. The headland stands within the Matakaea Scenic Reserve, a testament to the mana and rangatiratanga of Ngāi Tahu. Shag Point also reveals a more recent history, the era of coal mining. Whalers first discovered bituminous coal here in the 1830s. By 1862, the exposed coal seams became a source of industry. The mines thrived until 1972 when flooding finally silenced the shafts that extended beneath the coast. Today, evidence of this industrial past remains visible throughout the reserve. As you stand here, picture the flat rock platforms where New Zealand fur seals haul out to rest. From the cliff-top viewing areas, you can observe these fascinating creatures without disturbing their peaceful repose. Look out towards the ocean. Perhaps you’ll be lucky enough to spot a whale or dolphin. Shag Point offers stunning ocean views and peaceful coastal walks. It also teems with diverse flora and fauna. The rocky shore is lined with rimuripa, bull kelp, while offshore, dense forests of giant bladder kelp create a vibrant underwater world. Shag Point is more than just a scenic vista. It’s a place where history comes alive, where nature thrives, and where the whispers of the past mingle with the sounds of the ocean.